Mount Vernon High School held its commencement ceremony for the class of 2025, which the district said consists of 300 graduates, with Superintendent William Cedar Jr. delivering the principal address and student speakers Andrew Conway and Karma Carpenter offering remarks.

The ceremony included the presentation of the colors, the national anthem, the Mount Vernon High School Chorale performance and recognition of spring athletic teams. Superintendent William Cedar Jr. told graduates, “I double dog dare you to dream big,” and urged them to use the “keys” forged through their years of schooling: determination, curiosity, kindness and gratitude.

The class gift was presented by Senior Class President Andrew Conway, who described plans for “a brand new Mount Vernon High School sign near Cougar Drive, and an investment into refurbishing the sign on Yellowjacket Drive.” Conway said the signs are intended to serve as a lasting symbol of the Class of 2025’s legacy. Conway also noted that many graduates participated in programs such as the Global Scholars Program, earned associate degrees, and completed career-center pathways.

Student speaker Karma Carpenter addressed classmates about growth and resilience, thanking families and teachers and urging graduates to “try the things that may seem scary.” The ceremony recognized students who qualified for regional track and field, baseball and softball district finals, and the boys volleyball team advancing to the state final four. Coaches named in the ceremony include Chad Sid Wright (boys volleyball), Ryan Pence (softball) and Coach Hunt (baseball); the transcript lists those coaches in connection with upcoming postseason play.

School staff called the roll of graduates as diplomas were conferred and concluded the ceremony with the traditional tassel turn. The district also recognized students who completed the Knox County Career Center programs, apprenticeship pathways and those enlisting in the armed forces.